The Atkins diet is a high-protein, low-carb diet designed by cardiologist, Robert Atkins, MD. This three-phase diet plan includes limiting carbohydrates by eliminating all refined sugars and grains, and increasing the amount of proteins consumed. Because many protein items, such as meat, eggs and cheese, are also high in fat and cholesterol, many assume that the Atkins diet will raise blood cholesterol levels. However, research suggests otherwise.
How the Atkins Diet Works
The Atkins Diet works by satisfying hunger with a lower glycemic index (GI) approach. Foods high in carbohydrates, including grains, sugars and starchy vegetables like potatoes, are severely restricted. Research by endocrinologist Dr. David Ludwig shows that high-glycemic foods actually increase hunger, leading to over-eating and obesity, while low-glycemic foods satiate hunger, which could lead to weight loss. The key seems to lie in eating high-protein foods --- those following the Atkins diet eat their fill of meat, eggs and cheese and tend to be satisfied with less.
Supporting Research
Many studies have supported the positive effects of the Atkins diet on cholesterol. Notably, researchers from Duke University studied 51 overweight volunteers over a 6-month period following a strict low-carb diet, where there was no restriction in total calorie intake. The results showed that the 41 participants who completed the study experienced significant weight loss, a decrease of 5.9 to 10.3 percent. Overall blood cholesterol levels decreased 11 +/- 26 mg/dL. Even triglyceride levels were markedly decreased. Another study at Duke University Medical Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, similarly found that a low-carbohydrate diet had a more positive impact on increasing HDL levels (the "good cholesterol") and decreasing triglyceride levels than the traditional low-fat diet method.
Precautions
Although there is ample research to support Dr. Atkins' diet and the low-carb approach, many critics still question whether this unbalanced eating method is truly healthy. The Atkins diet may help lower blood cholesterol in some, but not in others. Always follow the advice of your physician or health care practitioner when it comes to managing your cholesterol.
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